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Welcome to ‘Kyle’s Koncessions’

BOURBON — Tears flowed and memories abounded as family and friends gathered Wednesday to memorialize Kyle Pugh of Bourbon at the dedication of newly-completed “Kyle’s Koncessions” at the Little League/Softball fields. Kyle was a Triton Elementary School student who died on July 26, 2011 in a go-cart accident at the farm owned by his parents, Wesley and Alissa Pugh.
The new concession stand serving the Little League, T-ball, and softball complex was much-needed, and has been under consideration for several years. Since Kyle was active in the youth baseball program at the complex at the time of his death, officials wished to name the new facility for him, and contacted the family for approval. The stand has been under construction for several weeks, and offers much more space for concession workers.
The idea came from the Little League Committee composed of Lee Stevens, Bill Keyser, Jere Bules, Jeff Carson, Todd McIntyre, and Steve McBride, who is the Summer League Director and Triton softball coach. Much community help was received to make the project possible. Robin Racolta of Robin’s Nest matted and framed a photo montage of Kyle’s life to be hung in the concession stand with another copy presented to the family. The actual construction was completed by Alan and Brent Savill.
The town of Bourbon was heavily involved, represented by council member P.J. Hanley. The Triton School Corporation, especially superintendent Donna Burroughs and board members Terri Barnhart and Amy Middaugh, was also instrumental by allowing the construction on school property.
Needed financing was arranged through a combination of sources. The Marshall County Community Foundation granted $10,000 toward the project, requested by Middaugh and Patti Kitch. Ralph Mason of The First State Bank of Bourbon arranged a loan for the balance with little collateral from the committee. Businesses and individuals also contributed to the overall funding.
During the dedication, McBride described the project and thanked contributors. He introduced Pastor David Gould of the Country Church in Bourbon, who gave a brief eulogy for Kyle.
“He was a left-handed batter who was always well-behaved and had a smile on his face,” said Gould. “He loved baseball, and was the spirit of happiness and joy,” he continued. “We know where Kyle is today,” said Gould. “He is probably sitting on Jesus’ lap discussing go-carts and baseball.”
Gould indicated that Kyle demonstrated a happiness toward life that is a model for all of us.
Contributors included: Michael Strang – consulting engineer; Bob Hensley – concrete construction; Cecil Spencer and Aggregate Concrete – concrete supplier; Jim Berkey Construction – block construction; Lowell Lemler – water line trench and ground leveling; David Stackhouse – forklift; Darlo Antomori at Menard’s – building supplies; town of Bourbon – water and sewer lines; Bourbon Plumbing – plumbing and air conditioning; John Rettinger Farms – use of lights; Larry Meister – electrical; DC Garage Doors; Steve and Neil Young – cement mixer; Nicorr/Jeff Unterbrink – metal; Spec-Rite Designs/ Mark Worrell – cabinets and counter tops; Peely and Marge Heckaman – painted door; Lawmaster Roofing/Tom Kiine – use of crane; Classic Stereo of Ft. Wayne/Phil Miller – sound system; and Hensley Fabricating/Ryan and Gregg Hensley – stainless steel.
Concrete, ground-leveling, and grass seeding will complete the project by next spring.